Thunderbirds Charities awarded GiGi’s Playhouse Phoenix $50,000 to support its 2026 Health & Fitness Initiative. The funding will help individuals with Down syndrome develop healthier habits through free, age-appropriate fitness and nutrition programming.
Individuals with Down syndrome can face unique health challenges that make regular physical activity and balanced nutrition especially important. This initiative will provide opportunities to improve strength, stamina, balance, coordination and overall movement skills through safe, progressive activities. Participants will also learn practical nutrition skills, explore healthy food choices and expand the variety of foods they are comfortable eating. These experiences support healthier habits, greater independence and improved long-term well-being.
Grant funds will help cover staff and program leaders, healthy food and ingredients, fitness equipment, supplies and other costs necessary to provide the Health & Fitness Initiative. The funding will also support GiGi’s Playhouse Phoenix in creating a healthier environment throughout the organization for participants, families and volunteers.
The initiative will serve individuals with Down syndrome of all ages and their families throughout Maricopa County. As with all programming at GiGi’s Playhouse Phoenix, these services will be provided at no cost, ensuring that financial limitations do not prevent families from accessing opportunities that promote lifelong health, confidence and independence.
This grant is part of the Spring 2026 cycle. View a list of all Recent Grantees.